The Best Water Proof Cameras

Water proof cameras let you capture all the action in any outdoor situation. Whether you want to take photos and videos underwater or simply snap away in the rain, a water proof digital camera is the way to go. It offers complete peace of mind and new creative possibilities. We've researched over 30 new cameras selected the best ones for you. Let's make a splash!

How to Choose Your Water Proof Camera

Water proof cameras are designed to let you capture everything in your life both in and out of the water. Since they come with a huge variety of features and specifications, it can be tricky to decide which one to buy. Here's a primer on what to look for when shopping for your water proof camera.

Water Resistance

There's a difference between water proof cameras and those designed to act as an actual underwater digital camera. Some models are made to safeguard against accidentally getting wet, while others can actually be submerged fully in water.

Photo Resolution

The resolution of your camera's still photos will be determined by the number of megapixels (MP) it offers. The general rule is: The higher the megapixels, the sharper and better your photos will look. All cameras recommended here have plenty of MP.

Video Resolution

Video resolution on cameras can be anywhere from full HD 1080p to a whopping 4K Ultra HD. All cameras listed in this buying guide have excellent video quality regardless of the resolution. If you have a 4K monitor you might want a 4K camera, too.

Wireless

A good water proof camera will have some sort of wireless capability, usually Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Wireless connectivity makes it quick and easy to connect the camera to your computer or smartphone to download and share your videos or photos.

Battery Life

In order to not miss out on life's best moments, you'll want a camera that has a good battery life. Still-frame cameras are generally measured in the number of shots, while video cameras are measured in the length of video they can shoot.

Drop Resistance

Many modern water proof cameras are designed to be drop-resistant, meaning you can drop them a certain distance without breaking the camera. It’s a good feature to have for extra peace of mind, especially outdoors. But still, better don't drop your camera.

Water Proof CamerasReviews and Buying Guide

There are literally hundreds of water proof cameras available on the market today and you can easily find yourself wondering which model to buy. That’s why we've done all the research for you! We narrowed the choices down to the waterproof cameras with the best quality and overall value. The goal here is to make it quick and easy for you to find the perfect water proof camera. Let’s take a look at the winners!

Water Resistance33 feet

Photo Resolution8MP

Video Resolution1440p HD

WirelessYes

Battery Life2 hours

Drop Resistance6 feet

It's rare that a camera so small and lightweight (only 2.6oz!) can be so versatile and amazing, yet here we are. The GoPro Hero Session takes very high-quality videos and photos and is a full underwater digital camera rated for use up to a depth of 33 feet. It can be easily mounted for use as an action camera (e.g. on helmets, kayaks, bikes, or your chest) and also works great as a regular camera.

This water proof video camera is so rugged it'll operate in almost any conditions you can imagine. It's exceptionally easy to use. There’s only a single button to activate the camera and scroll through menu items. Using this camera is a lot of fun. Battery life is excellent, as it'll operate for up to two hours of continuous video shooting. Plus, the intelligent sensor will automatically shut it off when not in use to preserve power, it’s a very smart feature. Lightweight, durable, simple to use and able to function underwater, the GoPro Hero Session has everything you'd want in a water proof camera.

Water Resistance131 feet

Photo Resolution12MP

Video Resolution4K UHD

WirelessYes

Battery Life1 hour 20 min.

Drop ResistanceNo

Available with a fully water proof, underwater case that will let you shoot videos and photos up to a depth of 131 feet, the YI 4K Action Camera is an excellent product. It records at an outstanding 4K Ultra HD resolution and takes advantage of advanced technologies such as image stabilization, multi-layered lenses, and a high-performance imaging chip. In short, the photos and videos you get from this camera offer pro-level quality.

Let’s talk about the battery: You'll be able to record up to 120 minutes of video on a single charge, and keep the camera on for up to eight hours on standby. Adding an optional SD card allows for virtually limitless storage. An integrated high-resolution touchscreen monitor, constructed of sturdy scratch-resistant glass, makes operation simple and easy. Connectivity is a snap thanks to built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Tip: By downloading the YI app you can instantly edit and share your photos and videos.

This camera offers industry-leading photo and video quality. It features advanced touchscreen technology, full underwater and Wi-Fi capabilities, as well as high-performance battery life. The YI 4K Action Camera is one of the very best cameras we’ve seen. Surprisingly, this tiny technological marvel is also very affordable. You really can’t go wrong with this camera.

Water Resistance33 feet

Photo Resolution13.2MP

Video Resolution1080p HD

WirelessNo

Battery Life2 hours

Drop Resistance5 feet

The Nikon COOLPIX may not look flashy, but it has what it takes to be an excellent underwater digital camera. Waterproof up to a depth of 33 feet, this camera shoots video at a respectable 1080p full HD resolution and takes beautiful photos at an amazing 13.2 MP.

Offering a wide-angle lens with 3X zoom capability, the COOLPIX S33 is extremely easy to use thanks to large buttons and intuitive menus. Rugged and durable, it's drop resistant up to five feet and is rated for cold-weather operation in temperatures as low as 14F. Image stabilization and low-light sensors complete the package, allowing you to take excellent videos and photos in almost any weather and lighting conditions. The battery will last you a full day on standby, or a solid two hours of continuous recording.

For a compact waterproof photo camera that competes with the best, the COOLPIX is an excellent buy. Water resistant and rugged, with excellent video and still imaging qualities plus great battery life, this camera is the perfect, affordable tool to record your adventures with.

Water Resistance131 feet

Photo Resolution12MP

Video Resolution4K UHD

WirelessYes

Battery Life1 hour 20 min.

Drop Resistance5 feet

We could make this review super short by saying that there are only positive things to say about the GoPro Hero4 Black. But let’s talk details, shall we? The Hero4 Black is water proof up to an incredible depth of 131 feet. It shoots stunning, professional-level 4K video and vibrant 12MP still photos. the camera, like all GoPros, can be easily mounted on almost any surface with affordable accessories. We’ve seen it attached to kayaks, bikes, parachutes, helicopters, boats, and many other objects. Of course it also works very well as a handheld, standalone camera.

Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, in concert with the free GoPro app, allow you to share and edit your images and videos on the fly. The camera’s and app’s controls are very simple and elegant thanks to intuitive menus. Plus, an onboard editing tool will let you quickly weed out any videos or photos you don't want to keep.

Thanks to a sophisticated image processor, this water proof camera lets you take advantage of settings such as night photo and time-lapse. Taking professional-quality images and videos has never been easier. Every single photo and video we took with this camera looked vibrant, well-lit, and sharp.

With features such as deep underwater capabilities, easy wireless connectivity, incredibly high-resolution video, and superior photo quality, the GoPro Hero4 Black is a must-have camera for any outdoor enthusiast. Buy it once and you’ll be able to take it with you on all your adventures for years to come!

Water Resistance50 feet

Photo Resolution16MP

Video Resolution1080p HD

WirelessYes

Battery Life2 hours

Drop Resistance7 feet

The word TOUGH is printed prominently on the front of the Olympus TG-4, and for good reason. Waterproof up to a depth of 50 feet, this camera is rugged and rock-solid. It'll operate in temperatures as low as 14F, can withstand crushing up to 220lbs, and can be dropped from a height of seven feet. This camera is built to last!

But the features don't end there. Whether it's shooting video at 1080p HD resolution or taking pictures at a very high 16MP, the Olympus knows how to capture important moments. A 25mm wide-angle lens is incorporated into the standard housing and the camera is renowned for its excellent light-sensing ability, resulting in clearer and sharper images. A 4X optical zoom completes the package, resulting in exquisite photography opportunities. Battery life is also excellent, offering up to two hours of continuous video recording.

Overall, the Olympus TG-4 offers great value from a trusted name in cameras. The camera gives you ruggedness, underwater capability, excellent imaging quality, outstanding battery life, and the peace of mind that comes with owning a camera you'll never have to worry about.

Water Resistance100 feet

Photo Resolution16MP

Video Resolution1080p HD

WirelessYes

Battery Life2 hours

Drop Resistance7 feet

It's no coincidence that two entries from the COOLPIX line made it onto this top underwater camera list. Nikon's reputation for image and lens quality is second-to-none, and it particularly shows with the AW130.

The camera is fully waterproof up to 100 feet and very durable. It shoots video at 1080p and takes still photos at 16MP. For still photo aficionados, this waterproof video camera will take individual shots up to 5 frames per second, which allows you to better capture fast moving scenes. Connectivity and image transfer are a breeze, thanks to built-in Wi-Fi. Featuring a wide-angle lens and 5X optical zoom, the COOLPIX also lets you incorporate GPS information into your creations so that you can create virtual maps of your travels.

The Nikon COOLPIX AW130 is an all-around excellent camera and an essential accessory for travelers and outdoor fans. With a robust design, excellent image quality, full wireless connectivity, and proven brand name, the AW130 is ready to follow you anywhere.

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